President Lee Jae-myung said on the 21st that police must keep in mind that their responsibility has grown as much as their authority, which he said is heavier now than at any time before.
Lee made the remarks in a speech at a ceremony marking the 81st Police Day. "We must take seriously the reality that public trust in the police has been shaken and public anxiety has grown because of the recent string of crimes involving people known to the victims and random attacks targeting unspecified members of the public," he said. He opened his address by thanking officers and their families. "I extend my deep gratitude to the police officers who have worked day and night so that citizens can leave home, go about their day, return safely and greet another morning, and to the families who have carried the weight of that devotion with them," he said.
"The mission of the police is to be a reliable protector for citizens in fear, a warm problem-solver for those suffering injustice, to deliver justice through swift and fair enforcement of the law, and to safeguard the lives and human rights of the people," he said. He added, "I am well aware of the hard work you have done, holding your posts even in urgent moments and faithfully carrying out your duties both at home and abroad."
Lee also called for vigilance. "Even so, I ask you to always be mindful that misconduct by a few and inadequate responses can erode the trust and reputation of the entire organization," he said. "With the complete overhaul of our criminal justice system, which had been in place for more than 70 years, police powers have become heavier than ever."
"Public trust cannot be restored with words alone," he said. "You must show a changed presence in the field and make bone-grinding efforts so that citizens can feel the change." He added, "You must coolly examine what fell short and actively pursue reform that boldly corrects flawed practices and systems."